A severe heat wave has struck the Caribbean region of Colombia, bringing maximum air temperatures of approximately 38 °C [1].

This weather event threatens public health and regional infrastructure in one of Colombia's most populated coastal areas. The extreme conditions increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses for residents in Barranquilla and the surrounding municipalities of Atlántico.

Authorities and experts from the Instituto de Hidrología, Meteorología y Estudios Ambientales (IDEAM) said that the heat index, or perceived temperature, has surpassed 40 °C [1]. These temperature increases were observed during the first days of May 2026 [2].

The IDEAM and local officials said the current climate crisis is linked to the El Niño phenomenon. This atmospheric pattern has worked in tandem with a prolonged dry season to intensify the heat across the region [3, 4].

Officials said the region has entered a critical phase. The combination of high temperatures and low humidity has created a volatile environment, leading to warnings about potential wildfires and increased drought conditions in the Caribbean lowlands [3].

Local governments in Atlántico are monitoring the situation as the heat persists. IDEAM said that these high temperatures would continue for several days, urging citizens to take precautions against the extreme heat [2].

“Maximum air temperatures reached around 38 °C”

The intersection of the El Niño phenomenon and a prolonged dry spell creates a compounding effect that pushes regional temperatures beyond typical seasonal norms. For the Caribbean region of Colombia, this means a higher vulnerability to environmental disasters such as wildfires, and a greater strain on water resources and public health systems during the peak of the heat wave.